RIYADH, 8 November 2006 — In preparation for the 6th National Forum for Dialogue entitled “Education: Reality and Promises” which is scheduled in the northern city of Al-Jouf in December, 60 men and women from the education field met here for two days to discuss important points about the general status of education in the Kingdom.
Monday’s session, which lasted for five hours, was chaired by Secretary-General of King Abdul Aziz Center for National Dialogue Faisal Al-Muammar. The participants discussed several flaws and suggested changes to be made in the general education in the Kingdom. The prospect of teachers brainwashing their students and passing across their own ideas without any observation was raised by one of the participants.
“Some teachers do not abide by the rules. They go about telling children their own ideas and thoughts on issues not relevant to textbooks,” said Dr. Bandar Al-Suwailim.
He added that a teacher’s mistake could cause the destruction of future generations.
Ali Al-Bakri, another participant, said that authorities in the education sector in the Kingdom should exert more effort to stop youngsters from ditching school. “I also suggest that the private sector cooperate with the government to build better schools where children and youngsters can learn in appropriate environments,” he said, stating examples that many public schools still rent buildings which are not suitable for schools.
He also added that a parent who enrolls his child in an intermediate or secondary school pay SR1,000 in insurance fees to guarantee that the youngster does not tamper with the school’s property.
Hamad Al-Humaidan, another participant, said that it was important to teach Saudi youngsters the culture of dialogue and respect of other people’s ideas.
Dr. Muhammad Al-Fadil said it was important for teachers to gain more experience in their field. “Every teacher has a right to be admitted to symposiums and training lectures to enhance his performance and gain better experience,” he said.
From the female side, a participant said over the microphones how the issue of transportation for females was draining their resources, health and talents.
“It reduces the chances of a female teacher’s success,” said Dr. Haya.
According to Habeeb Abdullah, the press secretary of the session, preliminary preparation sessions conclude in the capital before the event begins in Al-Jouf on Dec. 8
